Senior Scientist – Biophysics

Illumina•San Diego, CA

1d•$98,400 - $147,600•Onsite

About The Position

This role focuses on developing novel approaches to sequencing DNA. The ideal candidate is a creative, first-principles experimentalist comfortable working at the interface between biochemistry and physics, with experience working with DNA and/or DNA-processing enzymes. Experience in single-molecule biophysics is preferred. The candidate should have an in-depth understanding of biomolecular dynamics, mechanics, and interactions at the single-molecule level, with demonstrated expertise in developing novel assays, troubleshooting complex systems, and interpreting single-molecule data to discern underlying mechanistic properties of a molecular system from first principles. Experience scripting or programming is a plus, as is comfort with setting up, troubleshooting, and working with new/custom instrumentation.

Requirements

PhD in biophysics, bioengineering, biochemistry, protein chemistry or related field.
0-5 years of post-PhD hands-on experience with DNA-related biophysics experiments, DNA processing enzymes, or method development for DNA sequencing.
Understanding of single molecule biophysics; interdisciplinary experience combining biochemistry and biophysics to engineer biophysical systems and/or discern biophysical mechanisms.
Familiarity and comfort working with data collection systems, interpreting data sets, and troubleshooting experiments.
Exceptional data interpretation skills and ability to study data to propose next steps.
Highly creative and inventive problem solver with a can-do attitude.
Excellent communication and presentation skills.
Highly collaborative team player.

Nice To Haves

Ability to maintain custom equipment (training will be provided).
Ability to write scripts to process proprietary data.
Experience working with international cross site teams.
Single-molecule biophysics experience.

Responsibilities

Design, execute and interpret single molecule experiments, utilizing an understanding of DNA, biochemistry and biophysics.
Effectively work within multidisciplinary and international teams and routinely interact with synthetic chemists, protein chemists, bioinformatics scientists, and engineers to solve problems and devise experimental plans.
Innovate and devise creative solutions to difficult biophysics problems.
Keep detailed lab notebooks, prepare reports, updates, and summaries for managers and team.
Write technical reports and prepare presentations for cross-functional and cross-site technical teams.